Over 17 million Americans have Type 1 diabetes. Yet despite being born with the disease many of these Americans lead active lives. Recently, the American Diabetes Association and Tour de Cure had some their top ultimate Red Riders (riders with diagnosed with diabetes) validated that point.
Team Type 1 had a record setting victory in the Race Across America (RAAM). The Team Type 1 athletes, all of whom have Type 1 diabetes, won the non-stop, 3,021-mile transcontinental race in five days, nine hours and five minutes, beating their previous time. To cure and fight this disease join the American Diabetes Association on November 14 for a kick off event leading up to the Tour de Cure Ride on March 15, 2010. The Tour de Cure, a ride – not race – is an annual event started in 1991. The goal of the event is to help raise awareness of diabetes, help raise funds for diabetes research, and show that fitness can combat the disease.

The kick off event on Nov. 14th is being held at the Trailhead Bike Café: 6825 N 16th Street (SE corner of Glendale and 16th St, just west of the canal and the 51). From 8 9 a.m. is the Meet ‘n’ Greet. Then beginning at 9 the 25 mile ride begins, followed by the family ride at 10 a.m..

Attending will be Team Type 1 triathlete, Tom Kingery. Kingery, diagnosed with Type 1 at age 28. has been a marathoner and triathlete since 2000. Many participants over the years have had their reasons for participating in the Tour de Cure such as losing a loved one, to support a friend with diabetes or because it’s simply for a good cause. Whatever your motivation, don’t miss out on this life changing experience. Your first step to helping others should be by visiting tour.diabetes.org.